Monte Cristo Sandwich Ham Cheese

The first time I encountered a Monte Cristo, I was genuinely confused. Sweet powdered sugar on a ham and cheese sandwich? It felt like someone had accidentally bumped into the sugar bowl while making lunch. But one bite changed everything completely. The way the creamy Swiss melts into salty ham while that powdered sugar creates this incredible sweet-savory dance is nothing short of magical.

I made these for a lazy Sunday brunch when my cousin visited from out of town. She looked at me like I had completely lost my mind when she saw me dusting powdered sugar over sandwiches. Two sandwiches later, she was asking for the recipe and that is how I knew this was a keeper.

Ingredients

• White sandwich bread: Standard white bread works perfectly here, slightly stale is actually better because it soaks up the egg batter without falling apart
• Deli ham: Thinly sliced ham melts beautifully and provides the perfect salty base
• Swiss cheese: The nutty mild flavor of Swiss complements both ham and the sweet elements without overpowering
• Dijon mustard: Just a spread adds a subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness
• Eggs and milk: This custard batter creates that French toast style exterior we are after
• Butter and oil: Butter gives flavor while oil prevents burning, together they create the perfect golden crust
• Powdered sugar: The essential finishing touch that makes this sandwich unforgettable

Instructions

Build your sandwiches:

Lay out eight bread slices and spread Dijon mustard on four if using. Layer two slices ham and two slices Swiss on each mustard slice, then top with remaining bread to create four sandwiches.

Whisk the custard batter:

In a shallow bowl wide enough for dipping, beat eggs with milk, salt, and pepper until completely smooth and no streaks remain.

Heat your pan:

Melt butter with oil in a large skillet over medium heat, watching until the foam subsides and the mixture is hot but not smoking.

Dip and coat:

Quickly dip each sandwich into the batter, turning to coat both sides thoroughly but do not soak so long that bread becomes soggy.

Fry to perfection:

Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula, until deep golden brown and cheese has melted completely.

Finish and serve:

Let sandwiches rest for one minute on a wire rack, slice diagonally, dust generously with powdered sugar, and serve immediately with raspberry preserves if you want to fully embrace the sweet element.

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My daughter now requests these for her birthday breakfast every year. Something about that powdered sugar on top makes her feel like she is eating dessert for breakfast and I am absolutely not going to be the one to tell her otherwise.

Making It Your Own

Challah or brioche will make an incredibly rich version worth trying. The egg bread takes this sandwich to another level of decadence. Turkey works beautifully if you want something lighter than ham.

Serving Suggestions

A simple arugula salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Fresh berries on the side bridge the gap between savory and sweet. Hot coffee or even a sparkling cider pairs nicely.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the sandwiches hours before cooking and keep them wrapped in the refrigerator. The egg batter whisked just before cooking ensures the best coating. Keep extra powdered sugar nearby because everyone seems to add more at the table.

• Set up a dipping station with batter and hot pan ready to go
• Have a cooling rack ready so sandwiches stay crispy
• Powdered sugar right before serving keeps it looking fresh

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There is something genuinely joyful about a sandwich that refuses to follow rules. Sweet meets savory, breakfast meets lunch, simple ingredients create something extraordinary.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes a Monte Cristo different from a regular ham and cheese sandwich?

The key difference is the egg batter dip and pan-frying method. Like French toast, the entire sandwich gets coated in an egg mixture before cooking, creating a crispy, golden exterior. The finishing touch of powdered sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory ham and cheese.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely. While Swiss is traditional and provides excellent melting properties, Gruyère offers a nuttier flavor. Provolone or Monterey Jack work well for a milder taste. For something different, try a sharp cheddar to cut through the sweetness of the powdered sugar.

→ What's the best bread to use?

Standard white sandwich bread works perfectly, but challah or brioche elevates the dish with their richness and slight sweetness. The important thing is using bread that's sturdy enough to hold up to dipping and frying without falling apart. Slightly stale bread actually works best as it absorbs less egg mixture.

→ Why mix butter and oil for frying?

Butter provides wonderful flavor while oil has a higher smoke point and prevents burning. The combination gives you the best of both—rich taste without the risk of the butter scorching over medium heat. If you prefer, you can use all butter, just watch the temperature carefully.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ham and double the cheese slices. Some great vegetarian additions include thin tomato slices, fresh spinach, or caramelized onions. The egg batter and powdered sugar finish work just as well with all-cheese versions.

→ What should I serve with Monte Cristo sandwiches?

Raspberry preserves or jam are the classic accompaniment—their tartness complements the rich sandwich beautifully. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, or fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, a cup of tomato soup makes an excellent pairing.